Judith Nneka Chime, a former Super Falcons goalkeeper, has made a bold declaration of her intent to deepen her contributions to sports and football development in her home state of Enugu State and across Nigeria, Silvernews.com.ng reports.
The 47-year-old shotstopper who represented Nigeria at the 1999 FIFA World Cup finals in the United States of America, USA, and the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000 spoke to Silvernews.com.ng from her Atlanta, Georgia, USA, base, expressing desire to play more active role in sporting development in her own state, Enugu where she holds her Annual Judith Chime Women Football Championship.
“Yes, I do hold my annual Women *Football) Championship in Enugu. The championship, through my foundation, also encourages the girl child to toe the education line as well as their Football careers.
“I played soccer and also went to school. I don’t want these kids to go through the hard way that I went through. That’s why my foundation is always ready to assist in this regard”, the ex Nigeria international goalkeeper began.
“Yet, I still have a lot to contribute to my state, Enugu State. Our people are hardworking and resilient. What we need is strategic support and inclusive policies that will help our young talents to thrive.”
Chime has singlehandedly sponsored the grassroots women’s football tournament, first in Asaba and now Enugu in the last four years, an initiative that is focused on giving back to the grassroots and ensuring that the girl child is provided opportunities to explore her football potentials while combining sports with education.
The emphasis remains firmly on grassroots development, women empowerment, and creating sustainable opportunities for young people through sports.
Observers say her tournament has not only unearthed budding talents but also provided a platform for mentorship and exposure for young female footballers in the region.
Chime also expressed confidence in positively influencing preparations and outcomes for the 2026 National Sports Festival, which Enugu State is set to host. She maintained that her international exposure and experience would be valuable assets in ensuring the state delivers a successful outing, particularly in football.
Judith Nneka Chime is a former goalkeeper for the Nigerian women’s national football team, the Nigeria women’s national football team. She represented Nigeria at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2000 Summer Olympics, earning recognition for her contributions between the posts.
Beyond her grassroots tournament, Chime was recently awarded a Certificate of Acknowledgment from Global Wealth Women Warriors for her continued impact in empowering young women.
She has also extended her generosity to the domestic league by offering cash prizes to outstanding goalkeepers in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), further demonstrating her dedication to nurturing excellence in women’s football.
With her passion, dedication, and generosity, Judith Chime continues to inspire the next generation of athletes and change makers, reinforcing her message that she still has much to offer Enugu State and Nigeria at large.
